Dr. Anna McCarrey
The Psychology of Gambling - Why Do People Do It When They Lose More Than Win?
From the Californian Gold Rush in 1848 to buying lottery tickets at the local store, humans seek out opportunities to "get rich quick." Gambling offers such a possibility, but the odds are overwhelmingly against us. So, why do we do it? And why are casinos making increasingly larger profits? This talk explores the fascinating topic of gambling psychology to answer these questions.
Aging Neuroscience – How Do Our Grandparents’ Brains Develop as They Grow Older?
As we age, our brain undergoes several structural and functional changes that impact our thinking and behaviors. This is a hands-on talk with a model aging brain that sits in a skull cavity. Using the model, we will discuss neuroanatomical landmarks of the brain, age-related neurological disease, and the brain’s remarkable ability to functionally reorganize in old age.
State Standards
These presentations meet the following state education standards for high school students:
Science
Life Sciences
LS1-HS-1. Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins which carry out the essential functions of life through systems of specialized cells.
LS1-HS-2. Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.
LS1-HS-3. Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.
LS1-HS-4. Use a model to illustrate the role of cellular division (mitosis) and differentiation in producing and maintaining complex organisms.
Information and Communication Technology
Standard 3: Knowledge Constructor
Goal 3: Students critically curate a variety of resources using digital tools to construct knowledge, produce creative artifacts and make meaningful learning experiences for themselves and others.
ICT.9-12.3.a Students plan and employ effective research strategies to locate information and other resources for their intellectual or creative pursuits.
ICT.9-12.3.b Students evaluate the accuracy, perspective, credibility and relevance of information, media, data or other resources.